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Frickin Laser Cutters

8/14/2015

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For my current film project I need to make some model set interiors at 1/6th scale and below.  This seemed like a good excuse to try an online laser cutting service.  They key stumbling blocks to doing this  would be:
  • I don't know any vector based art packages
  • Lack of familiarity with materials
  • Aligning the asset with the specs provided by the vendor 


Getting Started
I had used Ponoko, an online 3d printing and laser cutting sercvice, for something in the past, so I decided to give them a try.  Their website actually has masses of great information for getting started with laser cutting.  Through their website I found an application called Inkscape which is a free, easy to learn vector package.  I was able to get started making simple shapes within minutes.  Inkscape saves SVG files which are used as input for laser cutting.

Learning about laser cut MDF
I had seen videos of components made in laser cut MDF but I hadn't actually been able to hold parts in my hands and see how heavy or strong they were.  I bought an MDF building kit from Bandua Wargames just to see how the MDF performed.  I was pleased with the material and so decided to go with this rather than Acrylic sheet.

Preparing the design
This is one area where Ponoko have done a stellar job. Their site has a lot of very useful information including templates for different sized materials with tips on how to prepare for submission, found in their starter kits.   Using a supplied material template and the correct colors (blue means cut, red means engrave) and stroke width, I was able to create a simple model of power door / air lock in about 30 minutes and it passed Ponoko's validation process first time.

Picture
The design, set on one of Ponoko's design templates
Waiting time
Now all I have to do its wait for the parts to arrive!  As I type this, they are being cut by a giant robot in Oakand. One thing that is exciting with this method, is I can use the SVG file to create surface detail with my inkjet printer which will save time when it comes to finishing the parts.  Fun stuff :-)
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    David Coombes

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